Choice in Type of
Gatherings
- Immediate Cremation Only
- Funeral Service with Cremation following
- Cremation followed by a Memorial Service
Immediate Cremation
Only
People who prefer not to have any
service or gathering can contact the funeral director for removal of deceased
and immediate cremation. Then it is necessary to review with your funeral
director administrative requirements and all other details.
Although direct cremation without
any form of gathering or service is an option, many people later regret this
decision because it ignores the need for closure. By viewing the body after
death, participating in arrangements, meeting in a formal of informal setting
with supportive friends and family, the ceremony or gathering becomes a
meaningful ritual like a baptism, wedding or anniversary.
You may not like the idea of a
viewing, but can see the value in a gathering of close personal friends to talk
and reminisce. You may discover you do indeed want a ceremony but not a typical
funeral. Consider other options before deciding.
Funeral Service with Cremation
following
Probably the biggest misconception
about cremation is that there can be no funeral if cremation is chosen. Nothing
could be further from the truth. In fact, most people choosing cremation prefer
to have a funeral with cremation afterward.
Many experts in the field of
psychology recommend a funeral service as a way of bringing closure to a life
lived. They feel the process helps loved ones move ahead with their lives
following a loss.
The funeral in most often conducted
in a funeral home or church, but can be held in any appropriate setting. The
funeral can involve clergy, but it is not necessary. In fact, many people
prefer a ceremony where family and friends simply eulogize and share feelings
and memories. Favorite musical selections are often an important part of this
remembrance. Families are encouraged to bring photo albums, favorite
collections or accomplishments of the loved one so others can concentrate on
the life that was lived.
Sharing is also the purpose of a
visitation or wake. These gatherings allow people to meet in a less formal
setting prior to or after the funeral. Visitations and wakes are most often
held in the funeral home as the facilities are large enough to accommodate
everyone. This setting also alleviates family members from the obligation of
entertaining and maintains the privacy of the bereaved.
When there is a funeral, a
container is required to transport the deceased to the crematory. Many
crematories require a rigid container. Unique caskets designs, cremation
containers, and floral tributes also allow family members a tangible way to
express their care while adding beauty to the ceremony.
Your funeral director will explain
your various casket and cremation container options for use in a funeral or
memorial service. You also have a choice as to whether the casket or the
cremation container is open or closed. Sometimes, families want the casket open
only for the immediate family and then closed before the beginning of the
service. Special photographs can also be displayed as a memorial of the
person.
Cremation followed by a Memorial
Service
State laws typically dictate a
waiting period before cremation can occur. During this time, very close family
and friends often request a final viewing. This can be arranged through the
funeral director.
The memorial service is a gathering
which differs from a funeral only in that the body is not present. Clergy may
be present to contribute support from the Scriptures if requested.
Most often the cremated remains are
present during the service in an urn. Urns come in many styles and reflect
varied artistic forms. With so many to choose from, family can find something
reflective of their lifestyle, faith or beliefs.
As with contemporary funerals,
pictures, memorabilia, awards and personal affects are often displayed as part
of the memorial service. The funeral director will coordinate the display of
these items, as well as the choice of music, the seating of people, the parking
of cars and any other aspects of the service. The funeral director is a
valuable resource in planning and can offer suggestions that may otherwise be
overlooked.
- Immediate Cremation Only
- Funeral Service with Cremation following
- Cremation followed by a Memorial Service
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